Apr 132011
I’m going to break my pledge on Monday to not talk about budget-related matters to give a few thoughts on Obama’s long-term budget plan that he set forth in his speech today:
- People already have pretty positive views of Medicare and Medicaid, but it was good of the President to remind everyone that this safety net is a contributing factor to this country’s greatness. It’s a stark contrast to the Republicans’ worldview of government as a hindrance to individuals’ aspirations.
- I’m still not sure how he plans to reduce costs in Medicaid without cutting services. Medicaid already pays low rates to providers–sometimes too low to ensure access to needed services. I’ll reserve judgment until further details are released.
- Republicans will have to tread carefully on the issue of taxing the wealthy. Most Americans are quite enthusiastic about the idea. Republicans did so well in 2010 because they were perceived as sympathetic to the concerns of everyday people. That could change if they aren’t nimble and willing to abandon their rigidity on the subject.
- Obama wants an agreement by June? Pfft. He might get a partial deal on spending reductions or some additional health care reforms, but both parties are going to resist any global agreement until after the election.
